Jared Ryan Benn would one day like to see a complete overhaul of the energy systems used throughout the world and see almost all countries using solely renewable energy sources.
Jared is studying for a BEng (Chemical Engineering) at Stellenbosch University (SU). He matriculated at Wynberg Boys’ High School in Cape Town in the Western Cape.
“It is important for us to work together to improve the world, not only for ourselves but for future generations.”
Explain why you chose the course/s you are studying?
I have always loved chemistry and although I didn’t want to specifically go into the field of chemistry, I still wanted to do a course that was centred around chemicals. Chemical engineering was therefore the perfect option for me. I also wanted to choose a career that would enable me to help the planet, and I believe that chemical engineering will allow me to do so.
Who or what inspired you to pursue these studies?
Although I mostly chose chemical engineering based on my own research, I was finally convinced by my uncle to pursue the field. He is also a chemical engineer and he showed me a lot of the projects that he has worked on. He worked on sustainable energy projects, which really inspired me to make my final decision.
What would you like to see changed in the world, and how do you see yourself contributing to such a change?
I would one day like to see a complete overhaul of the energy systems used throughout the world and see almost all countries using solely renewable energy sources. I believe that through a career as a chemical engineer, I will be able to solve the energy crisis in the world and provide innovative and sustainable methods to combat the use of non-renewable energy sources.
Where did you complete your schooling? (name of school and area where it is situated) Tell us a bit about this school and your teachers.
I spent my entire high school career at Wynberg Boys’ High School in Cape Town in the Western Cape. I absolutely loved the school and my teachers, many of whom inspired my love for maths and science, particularly my Grade 8 maths teacher, who first introduced me to the amazing world of mathematics. I was heavily involved in the school, both academically and culturally, and I treasure the time that I spent there.
What did you enjoy about physical science and maths at school?
The main thing that I enjoyed about physical sciences was being able to figure out how the world works. Through the physics and chemistry, that I learnt in high school, I truly started to understand the world around me and this inspired me to continue working in this field even more, to grow my knowledge. I love maths due to the tough nature of some problems, as I love solving complex problems. This also inspired me to take further studies in mathematics to learn even more about the subject.
Why do you think some people have problems doing well in maths and science? What advice do you have for school learners who struggle with these subjects?
The main reason that many people struggle with these subjects, in my opinion, is due to poor teaching in the classroom. If someone gets a bad teacher, even for one year, it can make them hate a certain subject for the rest of their schooling career. They might believe that they are bad at the subject, even though they have so much potential. In this situation, I recommend that students seek as much outside help as possible, from other students, teachers, outside tutors or even videos online when they are struggling.
Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?
Although it is extremely important to focus on your academics, especially to get the marks needed to achieve your goals after high school, it is also very important to try to have as much fun as possible. Although your last two years of high school are the most difficult, they can also be the most enjoyable, so get involved in as many activities as possible at your school. Make the most of your time while not sacrificing your academics.
What advice do you have for matriculants who have to apply for places in higher education institutions?
The best advice I can give is to not let outside influences change what you want to achieve. Do what you believe will bring you happiness and the most fulfilment in your future career. If you are unsure what you want to do, it is sometimes best to take a gap year to help you find yourself. No one knows exactly what they want to do for the rest of their lives when they are 18 years old. Although it may be frowned upon by some, often taking a gap year is the best option.
Understanding excellence – what makes an achiever?
An achiever, above everything else, is someone who doesn’t give up. No matter what hardships are thrown at them or what difficulties they might go through, they will always persevere and do the best they possibly can. They keep their eyes focused on their goals and do everything in their power to achieve them.
A message to South African youth in general?
Our country and the world, are in a very scary situation. With all of these taking place, it is important that we work together to improve the world, not only for ourselves but for future generations. There is no point in blaming older generations for the issues we face today, as they will not be affected. We will be the ones suffering the consequences, therefore we must do everything in our power to improve our lives and the lives of those around us in any way possible.
A message to the teachers at your school/s?
I would like to thank them for the passion and love for learning that many of them have given me. I would have not chosen the path I am currently on without them. They have shaped me into the person that I am today, and I cannot be more grateful for what they have done for me.
If you had ONE opportunity to speak directly to a very influential person, who would you choose and what would you say to them?
If I could talk to any influential person, specifically in the field of science, it would have to be Albert Einstein. Although I don’t fully understand most of his work, I would love to have the opportunity to sit down with him and hopefully begin to understand his thought process. I believe it would help me become a more insightful and creative person. I also love the field of nuclear physics and would love to be able to show him how far his work has advanced the field.
Melissa Muller believes that health care should be accessible, equitable and affordable to all.
Melissa is studying for a BEng (Mechatronics Engineering) at Stellenbosch University (SU). She matriculated at Rhenish Girls’ High School in Stellenbosch in the Western Cape.
“The key to success is consistency.”
Explain why you chose the course/s you are studying?
I chose to study mechatronic engineering because of my passion for mathematics and science. I find the interdisciplinary nature of this field particularly intriguing, since it will allow me to develop a diverse set of skills to address a variety of problems faced by society. This field of study will place me at the forefront of developing sustainable technologies in an ever-advancing world. I have always been an avid problem solver, and the enhanced decision-making skills that I will develop throughout my studies will further enable me to play to this strength of mine.
Who or what inspired you to pursue these studies?
My uncle studied mechanical engineering, and for as long as I can remember, I have always found his stories particularly interesting to listen to. I remember sitting at the Christmas table thinking that I also want to follow a career in the field of engineering so that I might have the chance to experience all that he has. His son, my cousin, recently received his doctoral degree in engineering. My fascination with his ground-breaking research is my confirmation that I have chosen the right career path.
What would you like to see changed in the world, and how do you see yourself contributing to such a change?
I am a firm believer that health care should be accessible, equitable and affordable to all. Although I may be taking a roundabout route, I want to further my studies in the field of biomedical engineering after I graduate as a mechatronic engineer. This approach may seem odd to some, but I believe that combining an engineering experience alongside with some form of medical training will enable me to provide a unique perspective to solving medical problems from an engineering point of view. I find innovation that stems from the collaboration of separate fields intriguing and believe that it is essential moving forward.
Where did you complete your schooling? (name of school and area where it is situated) Tell us a bit about this school and your teachers.
I attended Rhenish Girls’ High School, which is situated in Stellenbosch. The school is well- known for its hockey programme, and I was fortunate enough to have played for the school’s first team for three years. I also played for the water polo first team. This meant that I missed a lot of school due to sports tours. However, the teachers were extremely accommodating and always ensured that I stayed up to date with my work. They even helped me to reschedule tests so that I could write after school on days where my additional A-Levels examinations in mathematics and physics clashed with internal assessments.
What did you enjoy about physical science and maths at school?
I absolutely adored my mathematics and physical science teachers. They always went the extra mile to make classes enjoyable and interesting. For example, we would do experiments in class about the work that we were currently undertaking, which helped everyone to engage with the content on a deeper level. I also just love the logic and order that accompanies maths and science. There are a couple of fundamental rules that you must learn and understand, and after that you can apply them in interesting ways that require you to open your brain to all possibilities.
Why do you think some people have problems doing well in maths and science? What advice do you have for school learners who struggle with these subjects?
There is a perception that maths and science are too difficult for some people to understand, which results in a mental block towards these subjects. It is crucial to believe in yourself because a large part of success comes from confidence in your capabilities. Do not fear attempting a difficult sum and getting it wrong, since learning where you went wrong is a thousand times more important than getting everything right. When you are stuck, immediately avoid referring to the memorandum. Look at your notes and previous examples to try and figure it out from there first.
Any tips for learners in grades 11 and 12?
It is essential to know when to have fun and when to buckle down and study. If you are going to try and study 24/7 you are most probably going to burn out by the time you reach those all-important final examinations. Making time for family, friends, and doing the things that you love is incredibly beneficial for your mental health. This will make sitting down and studying so much easier when the time comes. Looking after yourself is just as important as doing past papers, because if you have a positive mindset, you will have more energy to study effectively.
What advice do you have for matriculants who have to apply for places in higher education institutions?
I know that this is a stressful time, having been in your shoes last year, but do not be afraid of applying to your dream institution. Also, apply to more than one institution, just in case you do not get placement at your first choice for whatever reason. It is also important to remember that not getting into your dream institution is not the end of the world. When one door closes, another one opens. Stay positive and do what you can to the best of your abilities to maximise your chances of being accepted at your university of choice.
Understanding excellence – what makes an achiever?
The key to success is consistency. The concept of consistency is applicable to all aspects of our lives, whether it be consistently working to achieve a better maths average or practicing consistently to get better at a particular sport. Developing a routine where you consistently work towards your goals makes you an achiever. Consistency is a skill that you can develop by implementing it in your daily life. For example, doing a maths past paper every morning will help to build your confidence and will allow you to identify the concepts that you are struggling with at an early stage.
A message to South African youth in general?
Dream big, because if you truly put your mind to something, you will achieve it. Never give up on your dreams if things do not go your way. The obstacles that you must face on your journey towards achieving your goals, make the final destination even more special. Do not be afraid of asking for help when you are at a crossroads or when you feel that you are losing your way, because a cry for help is not a sign of weakness, but actually of strength.
A message to the teachers at your school/s?
Thank you for the key role that you have played in my life. Your constant support and guidance honestly go a long way in furthering our self-confidence. Thank you for teaching me life lessons both inside and outside of the classroom. School has been such an integral part of my life up until this point, and without your help, I would not have been prepared to move on to the next phase of my life. Keep on bringing energy and life to the classroom, because you really touch our lives in more ways than you know.
If you had ONE opportunity to speak directly to a very influential person, who would you choose and what would you say to them?
I would want to talk to Oprah Winfrey. She has played a vital role in funding women’s shelters, aiding schools, and advocated for mental health awareness. I would ask her about her journey to success, and all the obstacles that she had to overcome to achieve her dreams. I want to ask her about her secrets to her formidable perseverance and resolve, that have made her the successful and influential woman that she is today. Overall, I think that she would be a remarkably interesting person to have a conversation with, and that there is a lot that I can learn from her.
Prof Timothy Dube
For his pioneering and innovative methods using satellite technology merged with machine learning (AI)
Prof Timothy Dube harnesses AI to revolutionise water management
At the nexus of hydrology and cutting-edge technology, Prof Timothy Dube leverages the power of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning and remote sensing to address one of humanity’s most pressing challenges — water scarcity.
His innovative approach is transforming how water resources are monitored, analysed and managed in some of the world’s most vulnerable ecosystems, with remarkable accuracy. “Technological advancements enable us to respond to environmental changes in real-time, optimise water usage and develop predictive models for better resource planning,” he says.
Dube, Director of the Institute for Water Studies at the University of the Western Cape (UWC), is particularly interested in the often overlooked non-perennial rivers (N-PRs) of semi-arid regions. In sub-Saharan Africa, two-thirds of rivers are non-perennial, meaning they do not flow all year round. These intermittent waterways have been historically neglected in research — a problem in an era where climate change threatens local and global water security.
During a field project as an undergraduate student, Dube saw the devastating effects of water scarcity on rural communities. “Witnessing the struggles people faced due to limited access to clean water profoundly impacted me,” he recalls. “It highlighted the critical importance of water in every aspect of life and would define my career going forward.”
The model, developed by Dube and his team, estimates water availability within N-PRs with approximately 85% accuracy — a significant development in regions where traditional monitoring methods fall short. “Our goal is to provide decision-makers with the most accurate and up-to-date information possible,” he says. “By harnessing new-generation Sentinel satellite data, we’re able to detect and monitor water resources in ways that were previously impossible, addressing pressing environmental challenges and promoting better water resource management.”
Dube’s work directly informs improved water management practices and supports agricultural planning, drought mitigation and ecosystem conservation. “The success of this project was technical, but also deeply personal. Witnessing the direct impact of our work on the ground and knowing that our research was contributing to resilient water management practices and resilient communities was profound.”
As a passionate educator, Dube has trained over 20 postgraduate students in these advanced technologies, nurturing the next generation of water resource experts. “The integration of AI and machine learning into hydrological modelling presents exciting opportunities to improve predictive capabilities and optimise water management strategies,” he says. “It’s crucial to equip young scientists with the tools they need to tackle future challenges.”
Dube says winning the NSTF-Water Research Commission (WRC) Award offers more than personal recognition. “It highlights the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing complex environmental issues, amplifying its influence and fostering the broader adoption of innovative solutions to global water challenges.”
Read the special Mail & Guardian supplement about all the NSTF-South32 Award winners.
Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha
For his exploitation of the capacity of the SensorLab at UWC
Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha’s legacy transforms lives through nanoscience
Prof Emmanuel Iwuoha and his team have developed ultra-sensitive biosensors for detecting breast cancer, TB and myocardial infarctions, potentially revolutionising patient care in resource-limited settings. “These diagnostic sensors are easy-to-use analytical devices, suitable for point-of-need applications in clinical diagnosis,” the University of the Western Cape’s (UWC) distinguished chemistry professor explains. “They are necessary for obtaining real-time information required for patient management at hospitals and doctor’s clinics.”
Iwuoha is the Chair of the DSI/NRF South African Research Chair Initiative (SARChI) for NanoElectrochemistry and Sensor Technology. At a doctoral level, he has created rare competencies in areas such as disease diagnostic biosensors, electrochemiluminescence, photovoltaic solar cells and lithium-ion battery materials. His research also involves creating functional materials from sustainable resources like solar cells, batteries and supercapacitors for use in sensors and clean energy generation.
His contribution to research capacity development is best exemplified by UWC’s Sensor Laboratories (SensorLab), which he founded in 2002. What began with one MSc student in a small laboratory has become a centre of excellence comprising 11 state-of-the-art laboratories, 65 postgraduate students and 12 academic staff members.
Over the past two decades, the facilities have enabled the training of more than 200 postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows. This organic growth served as an incentive for the construction of the ultra-modern Chemical Sciences Building at UWC, which houses SensorLab on its fourth floor.
Iwuoha’s impact extends beyond academia. One of his goals is to use nano-electrochemical technology to improve the quality of life in rural African communities by developing low-cost solar cells and disease diagnostic tests, underscoring his commitment to translating cutting-edge research into practical solutions. “I’ve always been driven to find ways that could benefit humanity or offer solutions to real-world problems, particularly in the field of human health,” he says, adding that he is excited about the integration of AI in sensing technology, energy generation and storage.
Recognised as an A-rated scientist by the National Research Foundation (NRF) and an Honorary Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, Iwuoha emphasises the importance of developing adequate research facilities. “Aspiring researchers should aim for adequate research infrastructure and laboratories suitable for in-house implementation of research plans,” he advises.
Iwuoha has been honoured with the NSTF-South32 Engineering Research Capacity Development Award sponsored by Eskom, recognising that his work pushes boundaries in functional materials and nano-electrochemistry while fostering a new generation of researchers and innovators.
Read the special Mail & Guardian supplement about all the NSTF-South32 Award winners.
Jonker Sailplanes (Pty) Ltd
For their design, manufacture and further development of their internationally competitive sailplanes
Jonker Sailplanes continues to soar to greater heights
Potchefstroom-based Jonker Sailplanes has once again clinched the NSTF-South32 Innovation Award for Small, Medium and Micro Enterprises (SMMEs), cementing its position as a global leader in sailplane design and manufacturing. This South African success story, born from a passion for aviation and engineering excellence, has revolutionised the world of competitive gliding and empowered scores of South Africans.
Founded in 2006 by Prof Attie Jonker, his brother Uys and Dr Johan Bosman, Jonker Sailplanes started as a small team of three engineers and three technicians. Today, it boasts a workforce of over 150, including 16 qualified engineers. About 90% of the staff joined as unskilled workers from the Ikageng township near Potchefstroom; today they are specialist technicians capable of performing safety-critical processes regulated by US and European aviation authorities.
The company’s journey to the top is marked by continuous innovation and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Its first plane, the JS1, became an immediate success, winning numerous national and international gliding competitions. Its successor the JS3 glider had advanced features and was developed over five years in collaboration with North-West University (NMU), where several PhD students conducted basic aerodynamic research under the stewardship of inhouse experts at Jonker Sailplanes.
The JS3 glider first took to the skies in 2016 and is currently in serial production, with 220 units already delivered to customers throughout the world. Since its release it has dominated international competitions, securing the top seven positions at the 2022 World Gliding Championships, with 70% of competitors in Jonkers Sailplanes. The JS3 is currently considered the best glider in the 18m class globally.
The company also pioneered the development of Africa’s first electric propulsion aircraft, the JS3 RES, which features a retractable electrical propulsion system and the world’s first removable batteries in an electric glider.
Key to Jonker Sailplanes’ success is its strong collaboration with academia, particularly NMU’s School of Mechanical Engineering. This partnership has developed focused research with direct industrial applications. Two of the company’s founders maintain active roles in both the business and academic spheres, ensuring a seamless flow of knowledge between research and practical application.
As Jonker Sailplanes continues to soar, it remains true to its vision of producing the world’s most sought-after gliders. With a blend of cutting-edge technology, academic collaboration and a passion for flight, this South African company is not just competing on the global stage — it’s dominating the race!
Read the special Mail & Guardian supplement about all the NSTF-South32 Award winners.
Modernising Agriculture: successes and lessons from the Agricultural Bio-economy Innovation Partnership Programme (ABIPP)
The need to provide physical, social, and economic access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to all people in South Africa (SA) has became a great challenge. SA faces problems ranging from high unemployment and poverty to the ongoing energy crisis and rising costs of living. These impact negatively on SA’s state of food security by making food expensive and inaccessible to many and increasing the number of people and households experiencing malnutrition and hunger. A study on food inadequacy and hunger in SA conducted in 2021 by Statistics SA (Stats SA), found that 21% (3,7 million households) of the population had little to no access to food.
As such, there is a need to encourage household participation in agricultural activities or in production of their own food so that they can increase food accessibility and employment opportunities. It is also essential to invest in innovative farming techniques that will increase the production yields from farming and reduce environmental harm. This can be achieved through biotechnology, economic and societal development based on renewable sources.
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- Modernising Agriculture: successes and lessons from ABIPP (Dr Rakeshnie Ramoutar Prieschl, Acting DDG: Technology and
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Inter-University Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy (IDIA)
For their cutting-edge infrastructure and its management
IDIA team pioneers data-intensive astronomy in South Africa
The Inter-University Institute for Data Intensive Astronomy (IDIA) has won the NSTF-South32 Special Annual Theme Award: Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) in South Africa (SA), recognising its pioneering efforts in bridging astronomy and big data. “Our goal is to build capacity and expertise in data-intensive research and enable the SA research community to step forward as global leaders,” explains Prof Rob Simmonds, Associate Director for New Technology Initiatives.
Born in 2015, IDIA is the brainchild of three local universities — the University of Cape Town, University of the Western Cape and University of Pretoria — alongside the South African Radio Astronomy Observatory (SARAO). IDIA emerged as a collaborative effort in the face of the looming data deluge from projects like MeerKAT and the Square Kilometre Array (SKA).
At the heart of the work is ilifu, an advanced federated cloud infrastructure that has already served over 400 astronomers and postgraduate students across 12 universities, and four national facilities in SA alone. Since 2018, nearly 200 peer-reviewed articles incorporating its infrastructure have been published.
Project Manager Kechil Kirkham describes IDIA as an academic organisation that performs several functions: “We nurture postgraduates so that they remain engaged and able to contribute to astronomical research. We also mentor software developers and support astronomers in processing their data.”
One of IDIA’s most significant contributions is the development of open-source software tools like CARTA (Cube Analysis and Rendering Tool for Astronomy) and iDaVIE-v (immersive Data Visualisation Interactive Explorer for volumetric rendering within Virtual Reality), reshaping astronomical research and pushing the boundaries of data visualisation. “Integration with Virtual Reality (VR) software is an exciting avenue for visualisation software, which we are actively pursuing through the IDIA Visualisation Lab,” Kirkham says.
Associate Prof Sally Macfarlane, IDIA’s Associate Director for Development and Outreach, says the team is passionate about democratising science and inviting everyone to join the cosmic conversation: “Through innovative outreach programmes, we’re lowering the entry barrier for newcomers to cloud-based big data science, and fostering inclusivity in data science and computing projects. Future efforts will also improve accessibility and usability, ensuring that researchers of all backgrounds can benefit from these tools.”
The IDIA team sees the NSTF-South32 Special Annual Theme Award: 4IR in SA as a recognition of past achievements and a catalyst for future innovation: “This is a pivotal moment, and we will leverage the publicity and recognition to drive our vision for the country forward — strengthening partnerships, building new collaborations and inspiring the next generation of IDIA’s infrastructure users.”
Read the special Mail & Guardian supplement about all the NSTF-South32 Award winners.